Nigeria at 65: A Story of Struggle, Pain, and Hope

Fellow Nigerians,

Once upon a time, in the heart of Africa, there was a land blessed with rivers, forests, and rich soil—a land called Nigeria. But this land, though beautiful and filled with strong people, was not free. For over sixty years, her destiny was controlled by colonial masters. Decisions about her people, her trade, and her future were made far away.

Yet, deep in the hearts of Nigerians burned a longing—the yearning to be free.

Brave men and women rose. Herbert Macaulay lit the torch of nationalism. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Ahmadu Bello, Anthony Enahoro, and many others carried it forward. They faced rejection, imprisonment, and hardship, but like a stubborn flame, the desire for freedom could not be quenched.

And then, on the morning of October 1st, 1960, the dream came true. Our green-white-green flag was lifted high, the Union Jack lowered, and Nigeria’s voice was heard: We are free!

Our Achievements

Since that day, Nigeria has walked with both triumph and trial. We became known as the Giant of Africa. Our soldiers kept peace across nations. Our writers—Chinua Achebe and Wole Soyinka—gave Africa a voice. Our music, from highlife to Afrobeats, now makes the world dance. Our athletes ran, played, and fought with courage, raising our flag on global stages.

We built schools and industries and raised generations of resilient people. Even when we stumble, Nigerians continue to shine with brilliance and creativity across the world.

Our Losses

But yes, we must admit our wounds. We lost time to corruption and injustice. We lost progress to tribalism and greed. Too many dreams have been buried, too many hopes postponed. Many of our children still wonder if independence gave them the Nigeria their parents dreamed of.

Our Struggle Continues

Yet, my brothers and sisters, this is not the end of the story. Just as our forefathers fought to break the chains of colonial rule, this generation must break the chains of corruption, disunity, and poverty.

Independence was not the end of the struggle—it was the beginning of a greater one: the struggle to build a Nigeria that works for all.

Let today remind us:

• Freedom is never handed down easily—it is fought for.
• Though we stumble, we are never defeated.
• Every Nigerian has a role in shaping the next chapter.

Nigeria is not a mistake. Nigeria is a miracle in progress. And as long as her people do not give up, the Giant will rise again.

Happy Independence Day, Nigeria! 🇳🇬
We Hail Thee—Our Own Dear Native Land.